Towels often harbour more bacteria than you realise, but there is an easy method to deep clean them without needing vinegar os baking soda
Summer is nearly upon us, and as we prepare our towels for the beach or pool, it’s crucial to inspect them as they’re frequently dirtier than we think. Towels can be teeming with bacteria, as many people mistakenly use fabric softener when laundering them, which can result in excess soap blocking the fibres.
This soap can accumulate into a waxy coating that may not be immediately visible, but will leave towels feeling somewhat stiff, produce a stale odour and compromise how hygienic they truly are.
Yet Catherine Wrench from Planet Friendly Living has revealed a straightforward method to restore and clean towels correctly, as all you need is a box of washing soda. Catherine explained: “Washing soda has a number of properties that make it especially useful around the home. It is particularly effective at breaking down acids and oils, softening water, cutting through soap scum, and removing stains.”
It can be challenging to launder towels effectively, as oily soap deposits can be tough to remove without a powerful cleaner that risks discolouring or damaging the fabric.
Washing soda is remarkably handy, but it’s a natural salt that is highly alkaline, meaning it can dissolve fabric softener and other greasy substances with minimal fuss.
Deploying washing soda will strip away any buildup clinging to towels, ensuring they emerge from the washing machine fresher, fluffier and more moisture-wicking.
Washing soda, also known as sodium carbonate or soda crystals, will give your towels a thorough deep clean without the need for repeated washing cycles, leaving them feeling as good as new.
How to wash towels properly with washing soda
To start, ensure you’re washing your towels separately from your clothing. Garments tend to shed a considerable amount of lint during a wash cycle, which can leave a lot of fluff clinging to your towels.
Place your towels into the washing machine and add approximately 120ml of washing soda directly into the drum.
Add a modest amount of laundry detergent to the drawer, but never use fabric softener in a towel wash, as this is responsible for much of the greasy soap build-up.
Set the washing machine to a hot wash at either 60°C or 90°C to ensure the towels are thoroughly cleaned and all bacteria are eliminated.
Once the cycle has finished, run an additional rinse cycle to help remove the loosened soap residue from the towels.
When the washing machine has completed its cycle, allow your towels to dry outdoors in the sunshine or pop them in a tumble dryer on a medium heat setting.
Your towels should smell fantastic and feel considerably softer, leaving you fully ready to make the most of the beach or a swim this summer.
